EDC to Lead Evaluation of Sesame Workshop Healthy Habits Initiative
EDC has been selected by Sesame Workshop to lead a rigorous independent evaluation of their global Healthy Habits initiative in Early Childhood Development systems in Brazil and Mexico.
Over nearly two years, evaluators Shai Fuxman and Daniel Lavan will examine the implementation of the program and identify caregiver, educator, and child outcomes. Data collection will be carried out in Portuguese and Spanish.
“We are honored to be chosen by Sesame Workshop to be their evaluation partner for this important study,” said Fuxman, who will serve as lead evaluator. “We look forward to advancing knowledge of the initiative’s potential to benefit children and their caregivers.”
The program was launched in January 2026, with the support of global healthcare company Abbott. Its free, research-based resources are designed to help caregivers cultivate whole-family good health and support children ages 3–5 in embracing routines that promote lifelong wellbeing and prevent chronic disease. Resources include storybooks, activity books, and videos on nutritious eating, fun movement, consistent sleep, and good hygiene.
Evaluation findings will provide insight into how the resources affect:
- Educator knowledge and practices related to healthy habits
- Caregiver knowledge and practices related to healthy habits
- Children’s knowledge of healthy behaviors
- Children’s healthy routines across home and school settings
During the first phase of the study, Fuxman and Lavan are collaborating closely with Sesame Workshop and local researchers to finalize the evaluation design and measurement framework. Key evaluation partners include Rio de Janeiro Department of Education, Nayarit Ministry of Education, participating ECD centers, and Sesame Workshop’s country-based teams.
The evaluation team will share all findings with participating caregivers through a series of six results workshops.
We invite you to learn more about EDC’s Research and Evaluation, Early Childhood Development & Learning, and Child Health & Safety work.
